A brand new culinary destination called 301 Rowe is getting ready to make its debut in a 169-year-old historic Whitby home, which was the home of James Rowe, Whitby’s first mayor, located at 301 Front St W.
The historic James Rowe House will be transformed into a fine dining waterfront restaurant and culinary hub, set to open by Spring 2026, according to a news release from the city of Whitby. The project, led by Ken Dunn, CEO of Cottage Dream Vacations, was awarded through a competitive Request for Proposals. 301 Rowe will feature fine French cuisine, a daily bistro with homemade baked goods, and may include a hidden speakeasy on the lower level. It will also serve as the headquarters and culinary training centre for Cottage Dream Vacations’ resort network and is expected to create up to 50 local jobs.
“As a proud Whitby resident for more than 20 years, I am thrilled to be working with my team to bring a one-of-a-kind dining experience to our community’s waterfront – a growing destination for residents and visitors alike,” Dunn said in a news release. “We’re honoured at the chance to breathe new life into the historic James Rowe House, transforming it into a warm and welcoming space where the community can come together to share meals, make memories, and enjoy the beauty of our town.”
Whitby Town Council approved the proposal and lease agreement, which is part of a broader waterfront revitalization plan that includes a pop-up Visitor’s Centre, accessible dock for kayaks and paddleboards, outdoor seating, and public art. Built in 1856 and originally located at 1600 Charles Street, the James Rowe House was saved from demolition in the late 1990s through efforts led by late councillor Shirley Scott and the Whitby Heritage Community Association, and was relocated to Front Street West.
“The transformation of historic Rowe House into a waterfront restaurant is another exciting step forward in our ongoing work to revitalize Whitby’s waterfront,” Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy said in a news release. “This project will preserve an important piece of our town’s history and create a vibrant new destination for residents and visitors to enjoy. It’s part of our commitment to making the waterfront a welcoming, dynamic place that supports local business, tourism, and community pride.”
